Bringing Gold Home? A Quick Guide for Indian Expats

For many Indians living in Gulf countries like the UAE and Bahrain, gold is more than just a metal; it’s a crucial investment and a cultural necessity. Dubai's competitive pricing, largely due to zero GST on gold bullion and jewellery, makes it an attractive hub for purchasing. With gold in Dubai often being 5% to 7% cheaper than in India, it's a common practice for expatriates to buy gold to carry back. However, understanding the rules for importing this valuable asset is essential to ensure a smooth journey through Indian Customs.

Indian citizens returning home after residing abroad for more than one year must be aware of the specific duty-free limits to avoid customs duties. Male passengers are permitted to bring back gold jewellery up to a maximum of 20 grams (with a maximum value of ₹50,000), which is approximately AED 2,050 or BHD 210. Female passengers are allowed a higher limit of up to a maximum of 40 grams (with a maximum value of ₹1,00,000), which is approximately AED 4,100 or BHD 420. It is crucial to note that this duty-free allowance applies only to gold jewellery, not to gold in the form of coins, biscuits, or bars.

For those planning to carry a larger quantity, the rules state that Indian travellers who have stayed abroad for more than six months are eligible to import up to a maximum of 1 kg of gold (in any form: jewellery, bars, or coins) upon payment of customs duty. If you exceed the duty-free limits or bring gold in non-jewellery forms, a flat customs duty is applicable, currently around 13.75% of the gold's value. This duty must be paid in convertible foreign currency (e.g., AED or BHD). 

To ensure a hassle-free experience, always carry complete and accurate documentation, including the purchase invoices clearly showing the gold's price, purity, and date. Proper paperwork and strict adherence to the stated limits are key to bringing your golden tokens of fortune back to India without any complications.